Despite questions surrounding his return this season, Anthony Davis, the prominent player acquired in the Luka Donćić trade, will be back on the court for the Dallas Mavericks on Monday against the Brooklyn Nets, according to reports.
Davis has been out of action since February 8 due to an adductor strain sustained during his debut game for the Mavericks after being traded from the Los Angeles Lakers. Initially considered doubtful for Monday`s game, his status was upgraded to questionable before it was confirmed he has sufficiently recovered to play.
To prepare for his return, the All-Star forward practiced with the G League`s Texas Legends last week. Sources indicate Davis was eager to play, though there were internal concerns within the Mavericks organization about the risk given their Western Conference standing and existing team injuries. Some within the organization felt shutting him down for the season was preferable, but Davis reportedly disagreed.
Since acquiring Davis, the Mavericks` record has declined to 34-37, placing them 11th in the Western Conference after losing nine of their last 11 games. The team has been further impacted by Kyrie Irving`s ACL tear, sidelining him for the remainder of this season and much of the next. Additionally, Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and other key players remain unavailable, limiting their game-day roster. While some suggest the Mavericks should focus on improving their draft position, they currently share the same record as the 10th-place Phoenix Suns, indicating they still have playoff contention possibilities.
Davis`s return suggests the Mavericks are still aiming to compete. Having played only 31 minutes for Dallas so far, his impact on the team`s performance as they strive for playoff contention will be closely watched.
Jasper Hawthorne